SAF-Holland regenerative braking axle: a positive customer experience from Switzerland

SAF TRAKr from SAF-Holland is a regenerative braking axle aimed at maximizing efficiency in view of increased sustainability. The innovative powertrain system developed by SAF-Holland has been recently tested by Swiss logistics company Galliker, a family-owned operator that relies on 3,300 employees all over Europe and a fleet of about 1,100 tractors and around the same number of trailers.

The SAF TRAKr regenerative braking axle

A refrigerated semi-trailer has been equipped with the SAF TRAKr regenerative braking axle since late 2021. «We already have a number of electric tractor units, so it seemed logical to electrify the trailer as well», explained Felix Felder, Head of Fleet Management at Galliker. The refrigerated vehicle has already driven more than 20,000 kilometres with the electric axle, exclusively on Swiss roads so far. «We are very happy with it so far. This is a new technology which we are examining very closely, looking at the economic benefits as well as sustainability», he added.

The SAF TRAKr uses regenerative braking to generate additional electrical energy to lower the emissions and fuel consumption of the entire combination. The recuperated energy can be used to run the refrigeration units in the Galliker semi-trailer fully on electricity. The drivers also benefit, as running the refrigeration units on electricity alone significantly reduces the noise generation.

The plans for 2022

The electric axle from SAF-HOLLAND is designed for axle loads from nine to ten tons and is available with different disc brakes for 19.5” and 22.5” wheels. The axle uses a high-voltage generator module for electric regenerative braking, with a maximum power of 26 kW. A total of 50 vehicles were equipped with the SAF TRAKr regenerative braking axle in 2021, and 50 additional units as well as series production are planned for mid 2022.